RPS will still take applications for Welcome Week assistants

RPS is looking for student volunteers to serve as Welcome Week assistants who are eager to plan events and talk about the IU campus. Official registration to be a Welcome Week assistant ended March 19, however, RPS will accept applications until all positions are filled, but they are on a first-come, first-serve basis, said Melanie Payne, director of summer orientation and Welcome Week. \nWelcome week has long been a tradition on the IU campus to help students get acquainted with the resources and sights IU and Bloomington has to offer. Residential Programs and Services works with the Office of Orientation Programs to help provide a week to allow students, usually freshmen, a chance to settle in before classes begin in the fall. \n“Welcome Week is a fun time,” Payne said. “A lot of students like being on the ‘inside’ of the planning.” \nWelcome Week has been known to consist of an induction ceremony which involves a picnic with other students in each dorm center and parents, a CultureFest, a visit to the Herman B Wells library, a Traditions and Spirit of IU event and information about the resources and support services available to any IUB student. \nWelcome Week assistants have many duties to fulfill. Even though the work being done is strictly volunteer, there are a few perks, namely, free early move-in if the assistant lives on campus. \nStudents with this position would need to be back in Bloomington Aug. 15. Each center varies with the amount of assistants, but an ideal number is 10, Payne said. Even though freshmen take the most advantage of this program, any student living in a dorm is able to. \nJust ask Eigenmann resident and junior Julie Sours. \n“Normally the people are really enthusiastic and outgoing,” she said. “My favorite part is the picnic with the parents.” \nFreshman Wright resident Alicia Lee said she agrees Welcome Week is beneficial. \n“I think it’s a great way to meet new people.” \nWelcome Week assistants not only get to show their enthusiasm for IU, but also help newcomers feel at home. One of the services they provide is taking a student’s class schedule and walking about to show where the class buildings are, along with providing helpful tips such as setting up a local bank account. \n“It’s a great way to make some friends, make some connections, learn some new skills and, of course, show your love of Indiana University,” Payne said.